I've seen huge changes in filmmaking: Saif Ali Khan

The actor, whose film Chef is set for release this week, will soon be completing 25 years in the industry
I've seen huge changes in filmmaking: Saif Ali Khan

Time and technology have not only changed the techniques of filmmaking but have also made giving the first take a more comfortable affair for actor Saif Ali Khan, who will clock 25 years in the industry next year, since his 1993 debut with the film Parampara.

Talking about the evolution that has come about due to technology, the National Award-winning actor says, "India is like a different country now. I have witnessed some huge changes in terms of filmmaking techniques. Digital (technology) has changed a lot of things. Things are done a lot faster now. In a way, that's good." He goes on to add, "I have stopped worrying about my first take though, because it's so easy to do one more now. Of course, I try and get it right always, but as editing and dubbing have become simpler, I worry less now as it can protect me." He also feels today's acting style has changed to a more international and natural one. "For me, it's more fun to do acting now," says Saif.

The actor is currently promoting his forthcoming entertainer Chef, directed by Raja Krishna Menon, an Indian adaptation of the 2014 American film of the same name by Jon Favreau, which is slated for release on Friday.

Saif decided to be a part of this film to understand the urban problem of dealing with family, divorce and children. "Chef is a mix -- both art and commercial. I agree that the entertainment industry needs to feature newer stories and fresher content. I think Chef is a step in the right direction. Some of the smaller films have been more exciting because they seemed fresher somehow. I am excited about (finding out) what response this film gets," he says.

Asked whether parents today are more supportive of their children's dreams, Saif, a father of three, says, "It's difficult. As a parent you would prefer them to be safer. In Chef, my father wants me to be a doctor or an engineer. He gets really upset when I say that I want to become a chef. All parents want security for their children." He adds that they (the makers) are calling this is a post-3 Idiots film, "where you get to follow your heart."

Saif, who is married to actress Kareena Kapoor Khan, believes that parents accord more respect to their children's aspirations now. "Earlier, parents used to decide a lot of things for you. In my family, we always listen to our children -- Sara wants to join films; that's fine as that's something she has always wanted to do. I am happy with what my children want to be," says the actor, who has daughter Sara and son Ibrahim with former wife Amrita Singh and nine-month-old Taimur with Kareena.

Best known for his roles in films like Main Khiladi Tu Anari, Hum Saath-Saath Hain, Hum Tum, Salaam Namaste, Omkara and Love Aaj Kal, most of which have been multi-starrers, Saif is now more inclined towards working in solo-hero movies.

"I prefer working in solo-hero projects because there you can be more relaxed and work at your own pace. But I am happy to do a two-hero film, if the role is good. I have had a wonderful time working with Shah Rukh. I really enjoyed Kal Ho Naa Ho," Saif says.

Besides Chef, Saif will also be seen in Kaalakaandi and the web series Sacred Games.

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